The effect of perceived social support levels on coping methods for urinary incontinence in elderly men

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the effect of the perceived social support level on coping methods for urinary incontinence among men aged 65 years and over with urinary incontinence. METHODS: A total of 92 male patients over the age of 65 years with urinary incontinence and adequate cognitive levels were included in the study. The coping methods, the environmental support, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support were used to collect data. RESULTS: The most common method of coping was changing clothes (64 [69.6%]). The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support total mean score was 55.83±14.8, which was considered above the medium-level support. The perception level of social support caused significant differences in coping methods in individuals with urinary incontinence. CONCLUSION: The view that urinary incontinence is a problem related to aging is regarded as an obstacle to seeking healthcare. Society should be made aware that urinary incontinence is not a normal condition related to aging and that it is not an insoluble problem that the elderly must endure.